Is there an alternative, upbeat thread for this game?
I am looking forward to this game:
- it's an England World Cup quarter final;
- there'll be a great crowd in Wigan, pie fuelled and eager;
- we have earned the right to play France by putting together a fine set of performances;
- 32 out of the 34 players will be authentic;
- France have some good, entertaining players and at times have played some decent stuff;
- we should be able to work on the few combinations that need some fine tuning without the head hunting, filthy head NRL head hunters attacking our play makers;
- it will be a celebration of TGG, in its broader context, and another opportunity for a true RL nation to put on a show.
As for the score, it ought to be similar to the NZ - France game, though France rested some of their better players for that.
Come on England!

France have showed all the characteristic guile, subtlety and attacking flair so typical of a side coached by Sir Richard of Agar. This means that at some point, they may actually move the ball and attack - however it won't be very often. Maybe they'll turn up and fight this time. Certainly hope so as England need another good hit out & also need to show more than the 20min blitz which has been evident so far. Either way, I'll settle for another good crowd, more great entertainment, pies & beer. Oh - and a run out for Gareth Widdop maybe?Just can't lose this feeling of positivity and enthusiasm for the World Cup at the moment!

It's an easy kick for the lad but, as we say in Rugby League, there's no easy kicks.